Dear Editor:

It’s been my honor and delight to represent the residents of Arrowsic, Dresden, Georgetown, Phippsburg, part of Richmond, and my own town of Woolwich in the Maine state legislature. You have been involved and curious and engaged constituents, and I’ve approached your concerns and questions with zest and a commitment to finding answers. I’ve listened to you, you’ve listened to me, and I’ve learned so much from all of you.

I’m excited to announce that I’m running for re-election because I want to continue to be your voice in the state – the young person, the foster parent, the fisherman, the retiree, the first responder – as we move Maine forward.

As your representative in Augusta, I’ve supported what our residents tell me they need: affordable health care, infrastructure (including broadband), more property tax relief, a work force trained for today and tomorrow, a sustainable and productive marine economy, a welcoming place for families to live and work, or simply a place to be able to age safely in place. And I will continue to do so if I am fortunate enough to continue to serve you.

The best part of this job is the relationships we’ve built during community events like Woolwich Day and Dresden Summerfest, constituent office hours, monthly potluck suppers, community group meetings, school functions, and town meetings. There are also those conversations at the Center Store, at Shaw’s, and the YMCA. This is what I bring to Augusta every day.

As I’ve done this past year, I’ll continue to count on you to express your concerns and your hopes, and I will continue to respond with respect, civility, honesty, and integrity. I look forward to the new year and new decade.

Allison Hepler

Woolwich